Useful Tips for Black Skin Care

There are many factors that are responsible for skin damage. Ultraviolet rays from the sun are well known for causing various skin related problems like premature aging, wrinkles, dryness and even skin cancer. However, people with black skin are less prone to sun damage due to the presence of melanin, and this is the main reason that darker skin tones do not burn as easily as lighter skin tones tend to.

But, it is still essential to give proper protection to the skin by using a good quality sunscreen in order to protect it from harmful rays whenever you go out in the sun. Considering a bit additional protection surely reduces the amount of harm that is caused by the harmful ultraviolet radiations.

Avoid the Common Makeup Mistakes.

Match your makeup with your skin tone for a natural look. “Makeup made especially for women of color has come a long way,” says dermatologist Wendy Roberts, M.D., who adds there’s nothing wrong with relatively cheap drugstore brands. Have dry skin? Oil-based makeup is best. And for acne-prone, oily skin, water-based is the way to go.

Protect Yourself From Skin Cancer.

Darker skin does provide some protection from the sun’s UV rays, but don’t count on it alone. Skin cancer is less common, but can be more deadly, in those with darker skin. Begin each day by applying a sunscreen or moisturizer with an SPF 15 to 30. And reapply sun protection often while you’re in direct sunlight.

Moisturize Your Skin

For making your skin glow all the time, you need to add as much extra moisture to it as possible. In case of a darker tone, the skin may seem dry and ash-gray without proper skin care. The best time when you can apply a moisturizer on your body is immediately after taking a shower or bath. However, you should ensure that you use a separate moisturizer for your face.

A majority of moisturizing products are too harsh to be applied on the face. If your facial skin is highly sensitive, the product might not get absorbed into the skin. Most of the moisturizing products have particular nutrients to treat problem areas without adding extra oils, perfumes, or other unessential elements. Use good quality moisturizers to get rid of dry skin.

Minimize Scars

If dark spots do appear, they can be treated with over-the-counter or prescription bleaching creams. Hydroquinone is a common ingredient. These creams work slowly, so don’t expect results right away. But don’t use the creams for too long, either: long-term use can cause a different discoloration of the skin. A dermatologist can help you decide on timing and on how strong a cream to use.

Black skin also has a tendency to form keloids, which are raised, rubbery or shiny scars that appear where skin was injured. To minimize the chance of keloids, avoid piercings or tattoos and get a dermatologist’s advice about caring for any wounds.

Avoid the Common Makeup Mistakes.

Match your makeup with your skin tone for a natural look. “Makeup made especially for women of color has come a long way,” says dermatologist Wendy Roberts, M.D., who adds there’s nothing wrong with relatively cheap drugstore brands. Have dry skin? Oil-based makeup is best. And for acne-prone, oily skin, water-based is the way to go.

Stick With a Simple and Safe Skin Care Routine.

Cleanse your face daily as little as once a day if it’s dry, up to three times if your goal is to remove excess oil. Gentle treatment is key for any skin type avoid abrasive cleansers or irritating cleansing puffs or loofahs. And use moisturizer only if your face feels dry without it.

Take Care of My Face

There are four basic steps to take in a facial care regimen. These steps should be done in the morning and in the evening before retiring:

Cleanse- loosen and lift impurities and excess oil

Tone- remove lifted dirt and readjust pH balance

Moisturize- depending on skin type, replenish moisture.

Treat- depending on skin condition and desires- can be a blemish treatment, fade treatment or skin rejuvenation treatment (such as a masque or deep moisturizing creme).